Pokémon Metal (Japanese: ポケットモンスター金, Pocket Monsters Jin) and and Pokémon Wood(Japanese: ポケットモンスター木, Pocket Monsters Mu) are upcoming paired versions for the seventh generation within the Pokémon franchise. Set within the new region, Tanfa with boasts a number of islands with a wide range of ecosystems. Pokémon Metal and Pokémon Wood are a great departure from the typical Pokémon formula in that the game will be expanded via updates which will update automatically for free once released. This is a first within the Pokémon franchise and an effort made by Game Freak to explore more MMORPG-related elements within the game.

The first season was launched March 16, 2016 which consisted of the player exploring the Northern Proximity and challenging three Gym Leaders as well as going against the criminal groups, Team Seed and Team Smog. The second season, tentatively named Pokémon Metal & Wood: Season 2 has been confirmed and set to appear sometime Fall 2016. Game Freak has promised that the second season will feature a much more expansive world set within the Tanfa Region. More new Pokémon will also be included with previous Pokemon featured int he first season set to have new evolutions. These include the starters as well as the two fossil Pokémon.

Contents

Cross-Season Game Features

Updates

Season 1 Updates: Updates will be released and will automatically download upon starting up the 3DS and logging in. The updates are completely free and will not cost the player to download and install them. Each updates will expand the Pokédex by adding newer Pokémon, more trainers and items, and new areas to explore. Trying to access these areas within the game prior to an update will result in the player being turned away by the gate guardian. It is possible, however, to see Pokémon that will appear in future updates in earlier versions. For example, a trainer may use a Pokémon that has yet to be encountered in the launch version but will be made available in the second version. This is not a common occurrence though.

Season 2 Updates: With the release of Season 2, Season 1 updates will transition to the next season. Much like before, there will be new updates included.

Regional Network Mode

Season 1 Updates: There are a number of new features featured in Pokémon Metal and Pokémon Wood that focuses on a MMORPG elements. The first notable new feature is the Regional Network Mode or RNM. When activated and connected to wifi, it allows the player to enter into an online mode where the player can interact with other players on through conversations, trading, and battles. Players communicate through the use of emotes that can be purchased, can open shops at areas within cities and towns called Trading Posts, and can find human players to battle with. There are certain events such as PokéQuests that players can participate in - solo, with a friend, or as a team. When logging into the Regional Network mode, players will be grouped by regions on dedicated servers thus making it much easier in terms of lag.

Season 2 Updates: The Regional Network Mode is now much easier to activate in the second season with players being able to toggle it on or off simply by turning on the 3DS wifi switch. Turning it on will automatically log them in and then reset the display momentarily. You no longer need to go to the Trading Post to access it now even if you start the game over from the beginning.

Interacting in RNM

Players can express themselves through the use of emotes which can be purchased using either Reputation or Citadel points. Players can access a players file simply by standing close to them. Pressing A results in viewing the players profile and history. Information includes:

The ability to battle or the ability to register as a friend. When challenged to a battle, an angry cloud mark appears above the challenging players head.. Those who are being challenged can accept it which will initiate the challenge. In addition, players can indicate they are ready to battle through access the PokéPad. When registering a s friend, a message is sent to that players PokéPad with an invitation. In addition, you can also request a player to join your party. This is needed for events such as a Master Quest.

Gifting

In addition, players can send gifts to one another though the number of gifts that can be sent per week is limited to only 8 and certain items such as key items or quest items can not be gifted. Money and experience points can be gifted as well but there is a small surcharge when gifting these items.

Reporting and Kicking Players

If a player is being unruly, cheating, harassing you or other players, or behaving incorrectly; you can report the player and indicate what type of problem it is. This also works for those who have low bars (red bars). If a player is offensive, playing unfairly, or has low connectivity, you can kick a player. The other member of the party must agree to this to effectively remove them. You can report a player in mid battle which will result in the battle finishing without any sort of rewards being handed out. Those who spam and abuse the report to end battles after starting them can be punished. Punishment can result to being banned from the RNM for a period of a few days to a month though lifelong bans are currently not allowed.

PokéPad

The PokePad

The PokéPad is a new technological item that allows players to access a number of apps to aid within the game. Upon receiving the item, it comes pre-loaded with the following apps:

PokéDex: View the regional PokéDex.

Maps: Access the map and plot pins to where you want to go. Allows a preview of the area only have you visit it previously.

Inventory: Access your items, TMs/HMs, and other artifacts.

Contacts: Access your contact list to message, battle, and trade.

Status: View the status of your Pokemon and switch them around.

Settings: Adjust the games settings.

Players can also download various apps for free or as a micro-transaction:

Free

Calculator: It's a basic calculator.

Weather: Access weather conditions throughout the region.

Calendar: Access a real-time calendar and write in memos.

Quests: Access quest information here.

PokéSocial: A social networking service that allows players to friend each other, send messages, post images taken from the game, and other options.

Trading Services: Access your trading information such as the items you are selling, prices, as well as any notifications of items you have sold.

Trading Post

Players are capable of trading items, TMs, and Pokémon with people while online. Players can also set up shops at Trading Posts where they can present their wares in exchange for G. Players can set up a price for each item, TM, and Pokémon they wish to sell. Players can purchase use G to purchase these products and the items are then transferred to the PokéPad. Players can even rate their experience with the seller and promote them by helping advertisement on the Trading Post Ad Board. Rules and restrictions within the ToS does apply here obviously and cheating/gambling/extortion will cause in a sellers ban - meaning they will encounter a prolonged duration of time where they cannot set up shops. There will also be events such as Auctions where players can include a particular item, TM, or Pokémon and players can suggest prices. Auctions occur on a weekly basis Saturday morning across the servers. If your item is sold, you will be notified and the G will be transferred to your PokéPad. If you purchase one of them items, you will be notified and it will be transferred to your PokéPad.

Crafting

Crafting is a new feature which allows players to craft items while on the go. Players can visit one of the traveling merchants to purchase supplies for crafting. There are typically 4 types of items that can be crafted. To see the crafting items and materials, please visit its section.

Cooking

Cooking is a new feature in the Pokémon franchise which allows players to join one of his or her party Pokémon to create a dish using various ingredients and tools. The Pokémons type greatly influences the outcome of the dish as does the ingredients and tools. In addition, it increases the bong between the Pokémon and the trainer.

Cosplay Pokémon

Cosplay Pokémon make a return with Pikachu in new types of Cosplay outfits. In addition, several other Pokémon will be receiving cosplay outfits.

PokéQuests

PokéQuests are special events that players can take from various Quest Vendors. The type of quests vary between vendors but the rewards are fairly similar between them all with the exception of the Citadel and Master. Players can take up to 6 quests at a time which can be viewed in the PokéPad. Master Quests require a fully open Quest list so completing any previous quests is a requirement. Guild, Citadel, and Posts Quests are unlimited which means that they never exhaust. The vendors of the aforementioned quests carry up to 10 quests at a time and will refill themselves after every day. Priority and Master Quests do not refill and is considered a one-time affair. Players can cancel a quest and throw it away but, once thrown away, they are unable to return back to it. This is not the case though in regards to Priority or Master Quests.

Season 2: New PokéQuests are confirmed to make an appearance with more unique and less randomized rewards. There will also be an improving loot system that rewards better performance during the quest for players as opposed to lackluster performance (i.e. too many Pokémon fainting, taking too much time, using too many items or Poké Center trips, etc).

Types of Quests

There for five types of quests available.

Priority: These quests are a priority and important to progress post-story content. The vendor is Professor Yew.

Guild: These quests focus on a specific type guild such as the Fire Guild. The quests reflect that type. The vendors are the Type Masters for each Guild.

Citadel: Citadel quests primarily reside within the Citadel and focuses on achievements within it. The vendor is the Citadel Master, Ramses.

Post: These quests are taken from the Quest Board at the Trading Post and consists of miscellaneous quests such as finding certain items or defeating so many trainers. They are given out by the Quest Master, Pluto.

Master: Master Quests are few and far between and typically requires taking them with a friend. Master Quests are the only type to not have a vendor but given by certain individuals. As of the first release, there are three of them that are known. They are only available at the end as Post-Story Content.

Rewards

Completing each quest results in rewards given out. Priority, Guild, and Post Quests typically give out these rewards:

G

Experience points

Reputation (Reputation Points can be used to upgrade gear, purchase items and emotes, and raises your public standing. They will gradually go down with time.)

An item/hold item/or possible a TM depending on the level of the quest.

New Pokémon (only for Priority Quests)

In regards to the Crucible Quests, it often rewards players with:

G

Experience points

Crucible Points (Crucible Points is currency used to purchase items and emotes, TMs, and other game enhancing content.)

An item/hold item/or possible a TM depending on the level of the quest.

In regards to Master Quests, the rewards are far greater:

G

Experience points

Reputation

An item/hold item/or possible a TM depending on the level of the quest.

List of Quests

Time

Much like in previous games, time is a major component within the game mechanics. Time is based within the internal clock and have five categories:

Early Morning: 0:00 to 7:00 am

Morning: 7:00 am to 12:00 pm.

Afternoon: 12:00 to 5:00 pm

Evening: 5:00 pm to 9:00 pm

Night: 9:00 pm to 0:00 am.

Certain Pokémon will only evolve at certain parts of the day. Additionally, the player will find that Pokémon may sleep during the night but active during the day as well as vice versa. Various stores and shops including the PokéMart will also be open during the day but closed at night. The Poké Center will be open 24/7 though.

Weather

Weather plays a more important role though slightly changed from previous installments. Certain weather patterns will be available within Tanfa and will appear randomly. This will effect how the player progresses through the area and the battles fought there. Naturally, rainy weather helps increase the strength of Water, Ice, Grass, and Electric types while debilitating Fire, Ground, Rock, and Flying types. A snowy region may have snowy weather along with windy weather while a more dry area will experience sunny and dusty weather.

New Weather

Previously, weather conditions have had an impact within the game such as learning moves or evolving certain Pokémon. In Gen 7, weather has a much more defined role within battles. These previous weather conditions have been changed to follow this new mechanic:

Acid Rain: Acid rain pours onto the battlefield; poisoning all the players. It powers up Poison, Ghost, Bug, and Grass types but powers down Dragon, Fairy, Fighting, and Dark types.

Cloudy: Cloudy weather is one of the most common. It doesn't power up or down Pokémon.

Clear: Clear weather is one of the most common. It doesn't power up or down Pokémon.

Pokémon that are dual type will have their power partially halved when powered up or down. For example, a Charizard will be halved powered down due to being a primary Fire type but having a secondary Flying type in Windy weather.

Player Battle Level

Players will not be able to battle players of a lower level due to level disadvantages. The game will take each players the combined Pokémon level and average it out. For example, having a six Pokémon team all level 24 will have a player level of 144 - the highest possible level at the launch version. Having a five Pokémon team with levels at 10, 15, 16, 18, and 12 is a player level of 71. However, having a team of three Pokémon all at level 24 results a level of 72. Therefore, the aforementioned level of 71 and t72 is capable of battling. Typically, it's a ten level difference that decides if two players can battle or not. This is aptly called the Player Level or PL for short.

Group Battle

A new type of battle has been created called a Group Battle which can have between 3 and 4 players. Each player will throw out a single Pokémon and will be turned based much like in previous games. Players can select a Pokémon to attack through a list. The camera will then shift to your Pokémon attacking that opponent. Pokémon who are next to the target has a higher chance of getting a successful hit in but the chances of success are less if the target Pokémon is across from the other side of the field.

Re-Battles

NPC characters such as trainers, gym members, and Gym Leaders can be fought more than during the Post-Story content. The player can ask for a rematch once every week to the NPC. While the levels were pre-determined prior to finishing up the story, Post-Story trainer levels are reflected by the Pokémon levels of the player. Therefore, having a team of all 24 level Pokémon results in that NPC trainer having 24 level Pokémon. In addition, some but not all trainers and Gym Leaders may have one or two extra Pokémon added into his or her team.

Season 2 Features

Season 2 of Pokémon Metal & Wood has just been announced with new Pokémon that are set to appear in the continuation of the game. Much of the content of Season 1 will return in Season 2 along with both new and improved features. It is confirmed that Season 2 will take place in the south and est section of the Tanfa Region and is confirmed to be much larger than what players explored in Season 1. In addition, more new Pokémon will also be available and will be the larger in numbers compared to the first season. Game Freak confirmed there will be two additional seasons set to be released later.

Poké Sports performance Network (P.S.P.N)

The Poké Sports Performance Network is a new game mode which allows players to team up with a Pokémon in his or her party in various sports-related contests such as Baseball, Rugby, Soccer, Relay Racing, Doubles Tennis, and Volleyball. Each sports has it's own set of rules and number of Pokémon permitted per team. This game mode is confirmed to be available both on local and online play. Local play focuses on challenging computer generated and controlled opponents while the online mode focuses on challlenging internet players. Rewards and as well as timed rewards are confirmed to be availiable. Onnce more information regarding this feature surfaces; we will update this section accordingly

Improved Pokémon Sprites

Pokémon sprites will be a step up compared to what was seen in Pokémon X & Y with fully animated sprites that are able to showcase emotions. For example, a Pokémon fighting against a higher level opponent might wear an expression of fear or anxiety while a Pokémon who knows they have the upper-hand will show a triumphant and self-assured smile. Pokémon who have a distinct type advantage or disadvantge will also wear similar expressions. In addition, all Pokémon will have idle animations and, while not uniformal, some will have up to six idle animations.

Improved Character Graphics

Much like in Pokémon X & Y, characters will have an improvement in terms of design and production. The series will still maintain its "chibi" style to it but the characters, by lage, will have an increase in realistic appearance.

Season 1 Features

Moves and Abilities

New moves and abilities have been included in both seasons.

Season 2 New Moves

There has yet to be any new information regarding new moves that will debut in Season 22.

The Pokémon places a curse on the opposing Pokémon. Should the trainer swap them out, the damage dealt by the one who laid the curse is split between the current Pokémon as well as previously swapped out Pokémon.

Upon being released from a Poke Ball or being encountered as a wild Pokemon, can has a 50/50 chance of startling the Pokemon causing them to flinch instead of performing their first move. Frighten also has a second function where it has a 50/50 chance of raising Garbagrub's speed but lowering its accuracy after taking a hit from an attack.

it will receive a huge stat boost in Special Attack, Speed, and Defense. What exactly Ectooze is "looking for" always changes though it typically focuses on battle conditions like battling a trainer in a cave or being reduced to critical health.

Amiibo will be supported with special attention on Pokémon-related Amiibo such as Pikachu, Charizard, and Lucario. GAME FREAK has stated that non-Pokémon Amiibo such as Mario can be scanned daily for rewards such as items and gold. As well, scanning an Amiibo once will reward the player with an unique gift. Scanning Pokémon Amiibo that was used in Super Smash Bros. for Wii U and 3DS can be fought as a battle once a day. The level will always be the highest possible cap per version.

GAME FREAK and Nintendo announced that all Amiibo will be supported within Pokémon Metal & Wood. It was revealed that scanning Amiibo in will have two functions:

Costumes: Scanning in any one of the following Amiibo gives the player character an outfit. The player character can only have one amiibo outfit equipped at a time. Multiple versions of the same character (i.e. Isabelle) awards with just a standard outfit.

G/Items: Scanning in one of the following Amiibo gives the player a daily amount of G or an item such as a Potion or Elixer. Some days are Amiibo Days which grants more G than usual or a rarer item.

PokéDex: For the Pokémon Amiibo, it awards the player with a PokéDex entry of that Pokemon.

Post-Story Content

Post-Story Content is available for those who finished the current sotryline in a given season. Season 2 will include the Post-Story Content such as the Citadel as starting content and will be activated once the player comes to that point in Season 2

Season 2 Post-Story Content

Post-Story Content is confirmed to appear for Season 2.

Season 1 Post-Story Content

Post-Story Content is typically defined by completing the needed events and activities to progress the story further. Due to the game being released through updates, most players will reach the of the story prior to the second update. Therefore, in order for players to continue playing, activities and events will be included as apart of the post-story content. These activities are public in nature and will require an online connection though not always.

In regards to the Season 2, Post- Story content will be available even if the player has yet to accomplish it during thier current play through.

Citadel

Each update version will obviously have a stopping point within the story. Once this occurs, players are free to participate on Post-Story content such as completing PokéQuests, participating in social activities, continuing training their Pokémon, or participating on online battles against opponents. A particular new content that is available after the Story content is the Citadel. The Citadel is an area previously known as the Tower of Dread which occurs earlier in the story. Re-purposed by the Pokémon league, the Citadel allows players to participate in intense battles with particular parameters. Due to the nature of The Citadel, it is only available for wifi mode and unavailable for offline play. There for six sections available at the start of the game within the Citadel:

1 v1: Players must fight against a single opponent.

2 v 2: Two players fight against two other players.

3 v 3: Three players fight against 3 other players.

Battle Royal: Up to 4 players participate in a group battle.

Inferno: Only top level cap Pokémon are allowed. Items are turned off.

Ranked: A Ranked Battle means that players will be ranked within their region.

The Citadel is a vital post-story game mode that allows players to gain Citadel Points where they can purchase rare items, TMs, and other goods. It's also a great way to increase ones skill and ability against strong players. Each game mode focuses on a particular areas and some trainers may excel at one mode over another. Certain Pokémon will also best fit in a certain game mode. The Citadel also serves as a social area for online trainers.

Citadel Events

Citadel Events are special, timed events available for the Citadel. These events often have higher prizes such as rarer Pokémon, items, TMs, and other collectibles.

Blitz Battle

The first event match is called the Blitz Battle and consists of five to eight players. This event is different as each player faces off a computer opponent. The goal is to defeat the computer players to get to the finish. Each Blitz Match has ten trainers that players have to fight against and is three Pokémon each. The first player to reach the finish can grab the best prizes while second and third will get less rare prizes. 5th through 8th will get rewards such as G or potions but will miss out on the best prizes.

Endorsement

In addition to participating in Citadel matches, players are able to be endorsed by one of the many vendors found in the social area. These vendors range from the prestigious Pokémon League to the ambitious Silph Co, to the nefarious Team Rocket. After agreeing to an endorsement, players can wear that endorsements clothing articles to increase the Endorse Points. This results in free swag given to the player by his or her endorser. Here are a list of known endorsers:

Pokémon League: The prestigious Pokémon League is a general endorsements that awards their most successful endorses with a variety of goods, clothing, items, and TMs.

Silph, Co: A leading company within the world of Pokémon, they award their most successful endorsements with rare items and products.

PokéBall, Co: A Kalos-based leading company tasked with creating Poké Balls. They award their most successful endorsements with Poké Ball and Poké Ball materials needed for construction.

Devon Corporation: The Devon Corporation is a Hoenn-based corporation who created Hold Items for Pokémon. They award successful endorsements with rare Hold Items.

Team Rocket: A nefarious crime syndicate based in Kanto and Johto. They award their most successful endorsements with various Pokémon from Johto and Kanto not found in Tanfa.

PCA (Pokémon Contest Association): The PCA is the hed of all Pokémon related contests within the Ahinnoh region. They award their most endorsements with rare accessories and berries.

Master Quest

Mega Quests are important events that players can undertake after completing the Story Content. Each update version will have a number of them with the release version having three:

Quest Title

Level

Vendor

Reward

Description

"Hidden Laboratory"

25

Amid, the Head Scientist

*8,000G

400 Exp to all Pokémon

80 Reputation

TM 101: Sanctuary/TM 102: Deliverance/TM 103: Retribution

Held Item: Crest of the King/Amulet of the King/Circlet of the King

Outfit: Technomancer/Cyber Wayfayer/Top Scientist

Medal: Laboratory Savior

There seems to be a problem at the Science Park and the institution is in danger of self-destructing. Figure out the problem and rescue the scientists.

Challenge three of the Heavenly Kings and learn the lost art of "Titles".

Each Master Quest is only accessible once you find a party of two other online members. Only those in your contact list can be apart of your team meaning you have to register them as a friend first. You can advertise you are looking for team mates by turning on your "Master Quest" icon from your main profile in the PokePad. Upon registering the other members and agreeing to the Master Quest, the team leader selects the Master Quest that will be completed by the team.

A Master Quest typically takes around 2-3 hours to complete. In addition, you can select the "Light version" which typically only takes 45 minutes to an hour but has a severe cut in rewards with some of them not being handed out. After completing the Master Quest, players are given various rewards with ranges from G, experience points, and Reputation along with rare gear, items, and even Pokémon.

Master Quests can be done unlimited times but restricted to twice per Master Quest a week. In addition, after doing a Master Quest 5 times, the amount of loot given is cut down and the extra rare items that are given out decrease in availability. The rewards may change per versions so that is something to keep in mind.

Master Training

Master Training is a new feature that will appear once story content is completed on each version update. While Master Training isn't set to appear in the launch version, it's precursor Advanced Training will appear. There are four types of Master Training:

Advanced (Launch Version)

Veteran (Second Version)

Expert (Third Version)

Master Training (Fourth Version)

Master training involves finding a NPC trainer who will battle the player. Upon winning, the trainer will not receive experience points or G but, instead, Training Points. These Master Trainers specialize in a either Types or Stats. Types include Fire, Fairy, Electric, etc while stats includes HP, Defense, Speed, etc. Most Master Trainers are either Gym Leaders or named trainers found during the game and subject to change in future version updates.

My Town

An entirely new and exciting addition to the game involves the player purchasing a parcel of land in an area called "Pokéland". This area doesn't exist in the Tanfa region proper but exists online. It is only available once the story content is completed for each updated version. Upon completing the launch version, the player has the option of purchasing a parcel f land that they can use to create his or her town. The player is able to decide many things such as:

The theme of the town: This will dictate the style of the houses, streets, and decorations.

Beautiful

Elegant

Dark

Scary

European

Continental

Asian

Modern

Build new Buildings: Your townspeople will need houses. You will also need a PokéCenter and PokéMart. A museum or power station wouldn't hurt either! Oh...and what's that!? A Town Gym?!!

Be a Gym Leader: It's your town! You are the Gym Leader. After constructing a Town Gym, you can hire Gym Trainers and challenge online players to battles!

Invite friends: The player can invite friends over that is on their contact list and participate in parties or friendly battles.

Attract townspeople: You can lure in townspeople to settle into the town. This is one way for the player to generate a steady revenue. The player can also talk to the townspeople and will even receive gifts.

Story

Pokémon Metal & Wood sees the player trying to protect the enviroment from either Team Smog or Team Seed. Team Smog wishes to see the world transfomred into a industrial paradise while Team Seed wishes to see it return to it's primitive form when humans never existed. The environment, climate change, and global warming are all important elements within the narrative.

Season 1 Story

Coming soon!

Season 2 Story

Coming soon!

Protagonists

The protagonists are player characters that are chosen at the start of the game. Players can choose between a male or female. Much like in Pokémon X & Y, players can customize the players looks and clothing. How extensive this is though has yet to be revealed.

Long is the male protagonist whose from the original Chinese word, "Dragon". His father takes care of the house along with his younger sister. His mother is in a foreign region studying with a famous Pokémon professor. If the player chooses Lyn, Long will fill the role as the friendly rival. He is encountered in various areas where he will challenge the player to a match.

Lyn is the female protagonist whose name comes from the original Chinese word, "forest". Her mother takes care of the house along with her younger brother. Her father is in a foreign region studying with a famous Pokémon professor. If the player picks Long, Lyn becomes the friendly rival. She is encountered in various areas where she will challenge the player to a match.

Secondary Characters

Professor Yew is the regions Pokémon Professor who specializes Pokémon environments and the impact Pokémon have on them. While he may seem old, he is actually a technophile and loves inventing new things. The PokéPad is one of his inventions which he is immensely proud of. He holds other Pokémon professors in low regard and his somewhat of a superiority complex. He does hold the Kanto professor, Professor Oak in high regard though. He considers Professor Birch to be a "clumsy oaf", Professor Rowan to be a "cranky, old coot", and Prodessor Sycamore to be "an uppity brat posing as a professor". He often regrets becoming the regional professor as it takes away time better spent inventing and researching. However, he said the amount of funds for the position were just too good to pass up.

Professor Yew's assistant and helper within the lab. He seems to be largely invisible to the professor and is often the subject of his disdain. While he appears to be a skilled assistant, the professors temperament prevents him from showing off his true skills.

Fen is the rival character to both Lyn and Long. He is described as being brash and arrogant and hates weakness. According to him, he grew up living on the streets without a family and detests naivety.

Team Smog & Team Seed

Team Smog and Team Seed is the Tanfa regions criminal organizations who have a clandestine plan to change the world to their liking. According to pre-release information:

Team Smog wishes to harness the power of industry and transform the entire world into a mechanical paradise. They see the natural world as obsolete and that humanity, with the power of power and energy, can create an industrial global metropolis. There goal is to completely and utterly corrupt nature and to establish a global metropolis. They are featured predominately in Pokémon Metal.

Team Seed wishes to harness the power of nature and cleanse the world of the blasphemy that is industry and pollution. They seehuman advancement in industry as a crime against nature and wish to utilize the forces of nature to tear it all down. Their goal is to return civilization to its primitive roots within the forests and valleys. They are featured predominately in Pokémon Wood.

Both criminal organizations will have a presence without both versions and there will be numerous quests focused on them such as infiltrating bases or taking down leaders. Additionally, players can be sponsored by one of them within the Citadel.

The Twelve Heavenly Kings

While unknown about who they are or what their purpose is, they are the subject of Master Quests with the ultimate goal of defeating them in battle. It is speculated that they have twelve members within their organization. They are described as being neither good nor bad but have a vision that clashes with that of the Pokémon League.

Jasper the Judge is set to appear in the Master Quest, "The Heavenly Kings" and is the confirmed final boss. He is described as being the judge of strength, character, and conviction. He is confirmed to be the first of The Twelve Heavenly Kings encountered by the player. While details have yet to surface, defeating him rewards the players with the unique mechanic called "Titles" which is said to drastically transform how players do battle; both offline and online.

New Trainers

Pokémon Jīn and Pokémon Mù will include previous trainers seen before in previous installments such as Lass, Fisherman, and Bug Catcher. New trainers with vast specialties will be included in each updated version. Here are a few of them:

Welder: A trainer who wears a welding mask and uniform and specializes in Fire and Steel type Pokémon.

Forester: A trainer who covers him/herself with the nature of the forest and specializes in Grass type Pokémon.

Farmer: A trainer who wears typical farmers clothes and specializes in Grass and Ground type Pokémon.

Gamer: A trainer who always cares his/her handheld gamin system with them and treats battles like games. They specializes in any type of Pokémon.

Forecaster: A trainer who wears a suit ensemble and glasses. They specialize in Pokémon that take advantage of the current weather conditions.

Merchant: A merchant is a trainer type that specializes in a variety of Pokémon. Once defeated, they will allow players to look at their wares.

Beautician: A person famed for making others beautiful. While the don't specialize in any particular type, they often use Fairy and Normal-types. They focus on beauty rather than strength.

Monk: A person who embraces mind of matter. They often use both Fighting and Psychic-types when battling. They do not give out G but give out twice as much experience and Reputation points.

Moneybags: Rich beyond belief; yet they still lose in battles. Should they lose, they may bribe you with more G to give them the win. They only give G and not experience or Reputation points.

Setting

The setting takes place in the new region of Tanfa and is described as a network of islands with a wide range of ecosystems. The official map as yet to be revealed but it has commented that, once it is, it will only feature the launch update map and not the map in its entirety.

Tanfa Region

The Tanfa Region is divided into proximities. Each proximity has it's own distinct culture and style and will be included within each version update. There are four proximities total but the second update version will include two proxmities.

Northern Proximity

The first proximity that was introduced is the Northern Proximity. It is characterized by cold and bitter winters in the north with a vast mountain range and divides the middle. Below the freezing north are evergreen forests and tundra. The southern stretches hold beautiful pastures and flowering fields.

West of the dividing mountain range is a desolate wasteland poisoned by industry and a winding river that leads into a medium sized lake. To the north is are mountainous rocky steppes that lead to the ocean. These rocks are razor sharp after being carved by the strong ocean wind and water. Across the straight in an island known for having archaeological digs and primordial ruins.

South of the lake is a sprawling pasture and orchard. It is said that this area feeds all of the Tanfa Region. To the south of that is an expansive savanna where the sun beats down and bakes the ground.

What lies beyond the Northern Proximity's border is to be revealed later.

Southern and Coast Proximity

These are new areas that the player can visit in the second season update. It is more expansive than the Northern Proximity and will contain a large number of places for players to travel to. More information regarding the region will be revealed.

Gym Leaders

Gym Leaders are exceptional trainers that specialize in a particular type and run their own Gym in a city or town. A gym is the pride of the city/town and the leader is held in high esteem. The launch and second update version will both have 3 Gym Leaders each while the third update has the last two Gym Leaders.

Season 1: New Pokémon

Each update version will contain a certain number of new Pokémon. The launch version is confirmed to have 35 new Pokémon though five of those evolutionary lines are unable to fully evolve in the launch version due to the 25 level cap.

Calflora is the Grass starter Pokémon within the Tanfa region. It is called the Twig Pokémon. It is said to have a peaceful disposition and a surprising knack for defense.

Twifarrig is a Grass-type Pokémon that evolves from Calflora. It has harnessed its natural ability to cause trees and forests to grow wherever it walks and to calm the elements. It is called the Natural Pokémon.

Warmmao is the Fire starter Pokémon within the Tanfa region. It is called the Spark Pokémon. It is said to have an aggressive disposition and a surprising knack for speed.

Shailuri is a Fire-type Pokémon that evolves from Warmao. It can cause the air around it to heat up to an instant blaze. It has an energetic disposition. It is called the Ember Pokémon.

Shorcub is the Water starter Pokémon within the Tanfa region. It is called the Droplet Pokémon. It is said to have a patient disposition and a surprising knack for power.

Ursassault is a Water-type Pokémon that evolves from Shorcub. It uses water enclosed around its fist to unleash powerful watery punches that can break apart rocks. It is called the Flood Pokémon.

Tundrill is a dual Normal and Ground-type Pokémon and is the regional rodent Pokémon. It's sharp claws are able to tunnel through the frozen ground of the northern tundra. It is called the Tundra Pokémon.

Marmartic is the evolved form of Tundrill and is a Ground and Ice-type Pokémon. It is capable of digging through ground that is frozen solid. It is called the Tundra Pokémon.

Meadoriole is a Normal and Flying-type Pokémon and confirmed to be the regional bird for the Tanfa region. It is very active during the day and often searches for food. It is called the Migratory Pokémon.

Boriole is a dual Normal and Flying-type Pokémon. It will travel from what region to the next while following the warm weather. It is called the Migratory Pokémon.

Storkeling is a dual Flying and Water-type Pokémon. It is able to migrate long distances and, once it reaches its birth place, will begin to transform into Crescrane. It is the Stork Pokémon.

Crescrane is a dual Flying and Water-type Pokémon and evolved from of Storkeling. It is a migratory Pokémon and will appear in various locations around the Tanfa region based on the weather. It prefers rainy weather over dry weather. It is called the Crane Pokémon.

Toinion is a pure Grass-type Pokémon and is typically found in areas of poor soil. It is called the Small Onion Pokémon.

Onionympth is a pure Grass-type Pokémon. It lives within the soil where it grows stronger. When it opens its onion shells, it is capable of inducing painful tears! It is called the Onion Pokémon.

Silkbyx: is a pure Bug-type Pokémon and is one of the regional bug Pokémons. It lives in the trees and chews leaves. It produces silk in great quantities. It is called the Silk Worm Pokémon.

Pupalk is a dual Bug and Flying-type Pokémon. Silbyx surrounds itself in silk to form a cocoon. This Pokémon can fly around in the air while in this form. It is called the Silk Cocoon Pokémon.

Mothread is a dual Bug and Flying-type Pokémon. It encloses itself with silk to add protection to its fragile body. It tends to shimmer at night. It is called the Silk Moth Pokémon.

Childew is a pure-Grass type Pokémon. It can often be found growing in fields and orchards. Fruits seems to sprout from it's body. It is called the Fruit Pokémon.

Suikid is a pure Grass-type Pokémon. It can be found in fields of vegetables and fruits. It is unique as it can actually be grown and harvested. It is called the Fruit Salad Pokémon.

Yodelly is a pure Normal-type Pokémon. It is able to scale rock faces very well and has sure footing. It is just as much as home on the tocky mountain tops as in the forest. It is called the Goat Pokémon.

Ramaneer is a dual Rock and Normal-type Pokémon. It can found in many mountainous terrain. While yet revealed, it is confirmed to change its appearance based on the rocky terrain in the area. It is called the Charging Pokémon.

Shifoo is a pure Rock-type Pokémon. It is said to protect travelers along the road by following them and acting like statues. They are called the Protector Pokémon.

Shishion is a pure Rock-type Pokémon and evolves from Shifoo. It stands guard; even when it lives on its own in the wild. It has a very dutiful spirit. It is called the Guardian Pokémon.

Gnarritant is a dual Bug and Flying-type Pokémon. It is known the buzzing noise it makes as it flies. It seems to take pleasure in annoying humans. It is called the Gnat Pokémon.

Pestifly is a dual Bug and Flying-type Pokémon. It can often be found near landfills and garbage where it feeds in order to grow stronger. Detractors of Bug-type Pokémon find this one to be a huge pest. It is called the Fly Pokémon.

Garbardier is a dual Bug and Flying-type Pokémon. It collects toxic material from landfills and keeps it stored in it's thorax. It will then spray the toxic material at nearby enemies. It is called the Bombardier Pokémon.

Porportise is a Water-type Pokémon. It often swims alongside boats and is friendly with humans. It is called the Swimmer Pokémon.

Aquaphin is a dual Water and Fairy-type Pokémon. It is the evolves form of Porportise. It uses its healing aura to cleanse the ocean and heal the damage wrought by humans. It is called the Serene Pokémon.

Bivalver is a dual Water and Psychic-type Pokémon. It can be found in coastal areas where it emanates psychotic fumes which causes hallucinations. When it becomes angry, it releases hallucinations so strong it causes physical harm. It is called the Hallucination Pokémon.

Clamemoir is a dual Water and Psychic-type Pokémon. It lies on the bottom of the ocean; trapping helpless prey in it's hallucinations. It is called the Hallucination Pokémon

Magmady: is a dual Fire and Ground-type Pokémon. It is valued for its stunning beauty and charm. It waves the tail on its head in such a way that is can only be described as the epitome of art. It is called the Magma Pokémon.

Pyroclassy is a dual Fire and Ground-type Pokémon. It utilizes it's beauty in stunning ways by changing the hue of it's magma body. It is called the Magma Pokémon.

Armorotonia is a dual Rock/Steel type Pokémon and is one of the two Fossil Pokémon in the Tanfa region. It uses its strong steel armor to protect itself from attacks. It is called the Armored Plate Pokémon.

Bonychus is a dual Rock/Dark type Pokémon and is the second of the Fossil Pokémon within the Tanfa region. It has long and sharp claws to rip apart its prey and then adorns itself with the bones. It is called the Sharp Claw Pokémon.

Siegigine is a Steel-type Pokémon. It can use its head to deliver powerful battering ram attacks. It can topple down reinforced steel fortifications in less than a minute! It is called the Siege Pokémon.

Pulverase is a dual Steel and Fire-type Pokémon and evolves from Siegegine. It slams into it's target with explosive force. It is called the War Machine Pokémon.

Kirikiriki is a pure Electric-type Pokémon. It rolls around sun-dried fields in it's hamster ball which provides the Pokémon via the sunlight. It is called the Rotation Pokémon.

Season 1 Pokémon will be available in Season 2 and later seasons as well. Improvements and changes to existing new Pokémon will also occur based on data from Season 1. In addition, newer evolutions, such as those of Calfflora, Warmao, and Shocub, will also appear in Season 2.

Season 2: New Pokémon

With the release of Season 2 of Metal & Wood, seven new Pokémon have been revealed to set to appear. According to Game Freak, Lexikurse, Snaptile, Triblade, and Malfunctron was set to appear as post-story Pokémon for Season 1 but, due to delays, were unable to make it in. They are set to appear in Season 2. Joining them are Grimask, Pugly, and Kittyke.

Legendary Pokémon

Legendary Pokémon are available in Pokémon Metal & Wood though not in the current launch version. Only two confirmed Legendaries have been revealed and they are the mascots of the two versions; Wood & Metal.

Jyoshorant amd Sonlient

The Metal & Wood mascots, Jyoshorant and Sonlient, have have yet to be obtained in the launch version but will make a very brief appearance.

Jyoshorant: It is unknown what typing it officially is. It is called the Defilement Pokémon and has a confirmed unique ability called Nature Corruption. It is said to travel the world; seeking areas of natural beauty in order to defile it and transform it into a decayed wasteland. Humanity at one point learned the wonders of industry through this Pokémon but it ceased spreading its wisdom deeming humanity unworthy. Jyoshorant comes from the Chinese words jī xiè or mechanical while wū rǎn or to pollute.

Sonlient: It is unknwon what typing it officially is. It is called the Woodtsalker Pokémon and has the confirmed unique ability called Pollutant Cure. It is said to travel the world; helping sick forests grow and curing defiled areas from industry and pollution. It detests large cities and will send it roots and trees to overcome them in a matter of seconds. It once taught humanity how to care for the earth but has deemed humanity unworthy of its knowledge. Sonlient comes from the chinese words sēn or forest and liè or hunter.

Mega Evolutions and Stones

Mega Evolutions are confirmed to make an appearance again with both old and new forms. As of January, only two of the Mega Evolutions have been revealed though how to obtain the needed Evolution stones has yet to be revealed.

Season 1 Mega Evolutions

Mega Ninetails and Mega Arcanine are given to the player for pre-ordering Pokémon Metal or Pokémon Wood. Mega Ninetails is given to those who pre-order Metal while Arcanine is for those who pre-order Wood. At a certain point in the story, the player will receive a Vulpix or Growlithe with a Mega Stone attached to it. Once the Mega Ring is obtained, they can activate their Mega Evolution. It is unknown if they can obe obtained through normal means later in the game.

Mega Parasect, Mega Mightyena, and Mega Heliolisk

Paras, Poochyena, and Helioptile are available in the wild and Parasectinite and Mightyenanite is available while progressing through the game in hard to reach but accessible areas within the Northern Proximity.

Mega Conkledurr, Mega Bouffalant, and Mega Xatu

Despite neither Timburr, Gurdurr, and Conkledurr being available within the launch version, Mega Conkledurr is a confirmed Mega Evolution for the current version. In addition, Bouffalant is available for capture but only once the "My Existence" Master Quest is completed. Completing this quest results in the player receiving either a Timbur with a Conkleduurite or a Bouffalant with a Bouffalantite as a reward. While Natu is available in the wild, Xatunite is only available through completing the Master Quest.

Mega Cherrum, Mega Delcatty, Mega Skarmony, and Mega Roseraid

Both Cherubi and Skitty as well as the Mega Stones are only available through participating in the Citadel. They are rewarded separately from their Mega Stones. The exact conditions remains o be seen. Mega Skarmony and Mega Roseraid will be available within the Citadel though will not initially be available like Delacatty and Cherrum. Mega Skarmony and Mega Roseraid's Mega Stones will be available in future Citadel mode updates.

Season 2 Mega Evolutions

Mega Evolutions will contniue in the Season 2 with three already confirmed:

Mega Meganium

Mega Typhlosion

Mega Feraligatr

Chikorita, Cyndaquil, and Totodile were available in the Post-Story Content through completing a Master Quest.

Unreleased Pokémon

Certain Pokémon will be available after the post-story content as well as small updates after release and before the second major update.

Johto Starters

The Johto starters will be available after completing the main story quests, meeting with Professor Yew, and completing a few tasks from him. Only one can be picked it will be holding a Mega Stone.

Eevee, Vaporeon, Jolteon, Flareon, and Sylveon

Eevee will be available along with Vaporeon, Jolteon, Flareon, and Slyveon after completing the main story quests, visiting the Science Park, and completing tasks assigned by them. Umbreon, Espeon, Glaceon, and Leafeon will be made available in later updates.

Future Pokémon

New Pokémon will be available in Season 3.

Development

Development began shortly after the release of Pokémon Omega Ruby and Alpha Sapphire with the focus on creating a Pokémon game that utilizes advanced technology. The team wanted to create a game that seemed more advanced technological than previous installments. While the game wasn't originally intended to have an MMORPG elements included into it; the team felt it opened up an entirely new world for players. Masuda stressed through throughout development that he wished to not withhold created content from players solely to turn a profit and it was decided that content that was priced would not in any way impact the progression of the story or give an advantage to a player. Masuda has stressed that any micro-transaction content will be purely cosmetic.

The team has also stated that due to the update versions being released periodically; it allows the team to get the game of quicker and focus on particular areas. In addition, it allows player feedback on what to improve or change in future updates which impacts the game ever greater than just post-released patches which was the case in Pokémon X & Y. Masuda has gone on to say that this system of development allows different sections of the team to focus on different aspects of the game; both current content and future content.

Updates

January 14: Games are formally announced. The starters are also revealed.

January 15: Three new shadows are included with the update.

January 17: The shadows are revealed. Four pictures of the map is revealed. Three new shadows are included with the update

January 18: A questionnaire asking which Johto Pokémon you would like to see have a Mega Evolution form.

January 19: A plethora of new information regarding the game is revealed. Time returns as a major component of game play. Weather now has a larger impact with weather patterns appearing in different parts of the map. The full map of the Tanfa Region that's included in the Launch version has been revealed. Several of the locations have been expanded upon by the staff. This area that will be included in the Launch version is also named the Northern Proximity. The develoing team has stated that the region is divided by four administrative areas called Proxmities.

January 20: The ability to craft items such as Super Potions and Pokémon has been announced. In addition, seven new trainers have been revealed.

January 20: Long and Lyn, the two protagonists have been revealed.

January 21: Master Training have been revealed. Three new Pokémon: Toinion, Tundrill, and Silbyx. Four additional Pokémon silhouettes have been announced. Mega Evolutions announced as Post-Story content. Region locations expanded upon.

January 24: Information regarding Cosplay and Amiibo has been added. The four silhouettes have been revealed: Crescrane, Magmady, Pestifly, and Bivalver.

January 25: The three Gym Leader silhouettes have been shown. The National Dex has also been created:

February 5: The five silhouettes were revealed with them being: Onionymph, Pupalk, Gnarritant, Porportise, and Siegegine.

February 8: Six silhouettes have been added; 4 regular Pokémon and 2 Mega Evolutions. Information concerning the Citadel, Mega Arcanine and Mega Ninetails, the regional professor, and new abilities have been added.

Trivia

The two versions are named after the Chinese characters of steel and wood. (金 and 木, Jin and Mu). These reflect the five elemental system or Wu Xing. The others being fire, earth, and water. While unofficial, fans are labeling the games Pokémon Steel & Pokémon Wood to make it easier for English fans to relate to as well as Pokémon Jin & Pokémon Mu based on how the title is spoken.

This is the first game to feature a title composed on a non-English name across all regions. In English, it is spoken as Pokémon Jin and Pokémon Mu.

While the region is currently unknown, due to the Chinese aspect of the names and the region being described as a network of islands; it is speculated to be based on Hong Kong.

This is currently the only Pokémon game to have such a development history with staggered update releases. This is also the only game to feature a separate online mode that allows players to interact with others within the worlds map.